“The adaptive technology uses the cameras to see how many cars are in a queue at the signal. Then looks at the other cameras at that intersection and then determines the optimal time to change that signal and then let all the cars through,” said Todd Ashby of Metro Planning Organization.

The technology is fairly new, especially to the Des Moines metro. Local experts said the cameras have made a huge difference already.

Studies show travel times along Jordan Creek Parkway have been reduced by 24 percent, and the number of times each vehicle needs to stop has been reduced by 56 percent.

It’s great for commuters who want to save time, but it could also make the roads safer for everyone.

“When you have stop-and-go traffic a lot, that's when you get the fender benders and the accidents. By having that flow smoother, it lessens the chance for accidents,” Ashby said.

About 50 of the cameras are currently being used, mostly around West Des Moines’ University and Hickman corridors, but the city already plans to install 18 more next year. Surrounding cities are looking at doing the same.

“I would imagine more jurisdictions will start incorporating this into their process as they get the funding available and then they have to study the corridor, but it will be happening more around the metro,” Ashby said.

The technology is costly, but Ashby said it's much less expensive than intersection improvement projects or widening roadways.